This is a collection of cymbals, kits, snares, kick pedals, electronic drum kits - and even an Bowler hat-shaped Argentine hand drum - from Rhythm Magazine's gruelling testing process. First reviewed in Rhythm issue 182 and published on MusicRadar throughout August and September.

Scroll on for this month’s top picks and click through to read each product’s full review. First up: Tama Speed Cobra pedal…

PrevPage 1 of 16Next PrevPage 1 of 16Next

Tama Speed Cobra (£158)

We put pedal to the metal with Tama's new Speed Cobra

MusicRadar’s verdict:

If you're looking to upgrade from a mid-level unit, or for metalheads desperate for the last word in kick drum velocity, as of now your 'to check out' list isn't complete without the Speed Cobra.

Yamaha DTX550K electronic drum kit (£1550)

Can Yamaha's latest middleweight contender go the distance?

MusicRadar’s verdict:

Disappointing play-along tracks aside, the DTX500 is a pretty good-sounding module, making Yamaha's new arrival definitely worth consideration, especially if you're looking for a 'central control kit' for use with external sounds from hardware or software sources.

Ludwig Black Magic snare drums (£539)

A modern interpretation of the legendary Black Beauty

MusicRadar's verdict:

Black Beauty snares are in such demand that there is a permanent five- to six-month waiting list for them. Given that they are made exclusively in the USA, when available they also carry premium price tags. While not being exactly cheap, Black Magic snares make a fine, more affordable alternative - particularly for aggressive contemporary players.

Garrahand Hand Drum (£375)

An intriguing melodic hand drum from Argentina

MusicRadar’s verdict:

Whether you play it un-amplified as a meditative cure to life's pressures or push the boundaries with cutting-edge FX treatments, either on its own or as part of your set-up, the Garrahand will challenge preconceptions whilst being superb fun too.

LP Classic Top-Tuning Congas (from £398)

Is LP making percussionists' lives easier by turning the traditional conga on its head?

MusicRadar’s verdict:

If you play your set on stands or need to tune up your set in super-quick time and demand sounds and playability of the highest order, then frankly these Top-Tuning Classics seem to make perfect sense!